| Holiday-Truth Readers Reports |
The Robinsons from S.Yorks travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Independent
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2008 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness |  | | Location |  | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We have just arrived back from a week at this hotel on arrival we were greeted at reception by friendly and efficient staff and during our stay they couldnt have been more helpful.
Patrice the kids entertainer was excellent.
Our room was lovely and clean and on arrival we had a bowl of fruit,bottle of water and tea and coffee left on our table as well as a swan made out of a towel which was a nice touch.
The room was cleaned every day and sheets and towels changed as well.We ate half board and the food was nice with a choice at both breakfast and dinner.
The entertainment at night was good with various shows for both kids and adults.
The facilities in the hotel were excellent the indoor pool was the biggest I have ever seen and was lovely and warm with a lifeguard in attendance there was also a sauna,steam room and gym. You can hire pool towels from reception for 10euros change it every day and at the end of your stay get your 10 euros back which would save some room in your suitcase.There is also a football court,volley ball and childrens play area as well as two outdoor pools.
The location of the hotel is at the opposite end of Benalmedena to the Marina and on a hill but neither of these caused a problem as it was a nice walk along the Promenade and you can also use the garage entrance of the hotel to cut of some of the hill.
We wouldnt hesitate in recommending this hotel to anyone and would definately visit again.
Click here for more information on this hotel, resort and region
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Donna from Fermanagh travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
direct holidays
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location |  | | Staff | | | Food |  | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: When we arrived our room was ready and we had a very speedy check-in which was great as we had been on the road since 4.00am. Our room was a 2 bedroom apartment for 6. There were 5 of us - 2 adults and 3 children and it was quite cramped. This apartment is meant to occupy 6 adults, I have no idea how but there were 2 bathrooms which was great. The rooms were very clean and the apartment was cleaned and beds changed twice a week. The maid came in every day to empty the bins and make the beds. The apartment was air conditioned but it is not very good you would not even know that it was on. The apartment consisted of 2 electric rings and a micrwave for cooking, again completely inadequate for an apartment intended to occupy 6 adults. We ate breakfast there but that was about it. There is a snack bar at the hotel that serves sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, chips etc which is handy. Overall I found that these apartments were very expensive. The snack bar also served ice creams, lollies, crisps, coke etc but they were very dear 1.80 for a can of coke 1.50 for a bag of Walkers crisps and 2.95 for a cornetto (all in euro). The entertainment team here were excellent and alays went out of their way to keep the kids and the adults occupied. The direct holidays rep was nice but we had very little dealings with him to be honest. The hill at the front of the hotel is very steep but you do get used to it. We went out every evening for dinner to the nearby restaurants most of which were lovely. If was going to pick one out I would have to say Pappays it is really lovely and the staff are wonderful. I would return to benalmadena but I would not go back to this hotel.
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C Levein from Fife travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
My Travel
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: On arriving, the reception were very helpful and our room was ready(cleaned,tidyed etc) straight away. Even though we did not have an outlook onto the pool we were pleased that the terrace provided an outlook on to the sea. The sloping roof in the bedroom did not bother us because we were out nearly everyday. In our apartement there was a tv with english channels (bbc1,itv2.cbeebies.SkyNews etc). Overall I was very pleased with our apartment.
The hotel's pool is great for kids with organized games in the pool for children and adults (waterpolo,water basket etc). The snackbar had lovely meals where you could eat outside in the shade or the sun.The hotel also supplied entertainement for older children (10-16) with their games room which had computers with msn, fast track and pool tables. For the smaller children (3-9)they had a playroom which is situated on the ground floor with slides and climbing frames and even mini golf.In the bar each night there is entertainment (magic shows,karoke etc).This is after the mini disco which takes place at the pool side. The mini disco is great for children,and staff get everyone involved also with free face painting.
I was very pleased with the hotel entertainement.
The hotel is on a very steep hill not suitable for those in weelchairs or the elderly.
Round about the hotel with in walking distances there are a selection of bars and restaurants with a lovely beach.
Overall my stay there was pleasant and i would recommend it to Familys everywhere.
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jean quinn from liverpool travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
alpharooms
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location |  | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: after reading some of the reviews i was a bit apprehensive but with no real reason on arrival the reception staff were very efficient and friendly the room was clean and big enough with an iron and ironingboard what a big plus, the hotel itself was clean although the cleaning of our room was dissapointing sheets were changed once in two weeks the floors were done once on the day we left we had a phone call from reception at nine in the morning ypu had to be out of the room by half ten and a cleaner knocking at the door at half nine to see if we were ready to vacate! we only snacked in the hotel and were a bit surprised that you couldnt eat before twelve the hotel staff were great especially the entertainment team. i dont think i would stay at this hotel again not because there was anything wrong with it just because of the location although there are some nice bars and restraunts close by most of the nightlife is 24hr square and the marina which are both a twenty min walk or 8euro cab ride away. all in all an enjoyable holiday and anybody going with young children will have a great time
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D Swann from Hull travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Having read some of the reports of the accomodation on various review sites we were unsure as to what we would find when we arrived.
We were pleasantly surprised.
On arrival, the reception staff were professional and prompt in their dealings. The room was clean and ready for us to move in.
There was a problem with the shower door which was repaired immediately. The room was small (1 bedroom with sofa beds in lounge) but adequate. Air conditioning was included. The cooking facilities were also adequate. There was a TV with some English channels (BBC1, 2, ITV2, CBeebies, SKyNews etc).
We must give a special mention to the childrens entertainment team, absolute diamonds each and every one. Patient, caring, funny, cannot praise them enough. All the kids in the hotel were welcomed and involved.
Contrary to some reports we found all the staff to be helpful and polite, the food was good (although we only had snacks at lunchtime, never ate in the restaurant), the rooms were cleaned regularly enough and the amenities could not be faulted.
Pools were safe, lifeguards on duty at each one, and any rowdiness was soon stamped out.
The hotel is on a steep hill but half of this can be avoided by using the hotel carpark to gain entry to hotel.
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c almond from Leeds travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Mytravel
on a family holiday.
There were more than 6 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness |  | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This was our second visit to the Palace, the first time we went it was great & we booked this years as soon as we arrived back.
This visit was a let down. We got 3 rooms, my parents & grandparents rooms were lovely & clean & no complaints from them but our room was a disgrace, peeling pain on the walls, stained & dirty sofa bed. The mattress on the spare bed had a hole in it, broken air con, no lighting in bathroom, faulty shower, hairdryer burnt my fringe when it set a light, was replaced by a hairdryer that had a burn make in the flex. Faulty iron, dirty uncleaned toilet, filthy floors, smelt of drainage & was facing a building site which we weren't warned about.
The cleaner only came twice & mopped the floor with dirty water which looked like she had mopped every other room first & we only had the bedding changed once in 2 weeks, she didn't even come to make the beds although she went to my mums room opposite everyday.
I complained to reception & they fobbed me off so complained twice to the rep but she didn't come back as promised. I finally got more out of a stand in rep on the day before coming home & he offered to get our room changed which was a bit pointless at the end of the holiday.
Our room cards kept deactivating which happened about 9 times so we had to go down to reception & get them to sort it which by the end of the 2 weeks they became very rude to us & said it was our mobile causing the problem which we didn't have with us.
My 5 year old son loved the entertainment & became very popular with the staff & other guests, he had his 5th birthday out there on the last day & was given a toy car.
We loved it so much the first year but now I feel very let down & won't be going back. I blame the rep more than the hotel, if she had been more helpful & actually been around more we would have got things sorted out.
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Victoria Gray from Whitburn travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
My Travel
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We have just returned from Benalmadena Palace earlier today, we were a party of me and my husband (30's), his parents (50's) and our 2 girls 7 and 3 years old.
Firstly I have to say we found the hotel very clean and all facilities pools etc were cleaned every day. We were given fresh towels each day and our beds made. The hotel staff especially TREVOR and SALVADORE on Reception were very helpful and always offered assistance. We were in 220 and 221, second floor overlooking the pools.
The location of the hotel is a distance from the Marina, which by the way is wonderful ! Much more 'upmarket' than the side Ben Palace is on. The bus cost 1.05 Euros each one way and taxis approx 8 Euro.
We ate in the restaurant on 2 nights, as the menu looked appetising and we weren't disapointed, our children who are a little fussy found something nice to eat and of course some yummy desserts.
I have to say that the highlight of the hotel is the Kids Club, we visited most days (we supervised our children there) and MIRJAM and PATRICE were wonderful, the children loved seeing them and playing games. The Mini Disco each night is great as the kids really get involved and the staff make the night great fun. The Parrot Show was a big hit (we paid 10 Euro last night for a pic of kids with birds, they were in my email box when I returned today) and Amp and Decs Karaoke - the singer has amazing dance moves !!! (You will know what I mean) !
The Hill was not too bad, steep incline, go into garage and use card or press buzzer - get into lift to your floor, we did this each day with no problems and 2 older people and a buggy.
Off resort we had a lovely breakfast in SHAKESPEARES, a fantastic meal at PAPAYS and SHANGHI just off main strip in side street did an amazing chinese (we went twice during our stay). In the Marina, we chose METRO for a delicious Italian feast, heavenly - very recommended !
The best part for our 7 year old was a trip to Selwor Marina, we paid 21 Euro so she could swim with a Sea Lion, we expected perhaps a quick dip in the pool with one but instead got an individual 45 minute lesson on how to teach the sea lion to spin and twirl, kiss, hug and push my daughter around the pool - we would have paid 121 Euro ! Simply brilliant and so worth it if you have kids of a similar age - Hi Guideo !!! (That's the Sea Lion) ! The Sealife Centre again was good, the kids loved that they had all the charachters from Finding Nemo - well not the actual, but the same type of fish ! About an hour was spent pointing out Dory, Bubbles, Bruce, Crush and Co !
The only bad thing happened last night.....The hotel hosted a wedding last night from around 10pm. The usual noise from the bar etc is fine and I am a light sleeper but managed fine, however the reception was held in the room beneath ours and I spent most of my night at reception almost crying thru tiredness. The wedding went on and on and on......my children were exhausted, our room was vibrating, and we had a 8am pickup for the airport. The manager refused to come and deal with the 8 rooms or so complaining like myself as he was far too busy enjoying himself downstairs. Finally at 5.45am after hours of walking the corridors and trying to pacify my children it stopped. I had 1 hours sleep before a day at the airport and a 2 and a half hour flight. The worst part was that the Manager had decided not to come to work to deal with the complaints. The general idea seems to be weddings are big business and pay well, whats a few disgruntled brits ?
However apart from that one problem, the hotel was a dream ! We will return in the future, we hope to meet Patrice again :O)
Finally I would like to say that if you are looking for a place where children can have fun with lovely staff, in a clean environment, good food, drinks and fab weather (we got 30 degrees each day) ! Then this is a great hotel for you.
Thanks to ANGIE and EDDIE (Aberdeen) and LORNA and ROBIN (Northern Ireland), Donna, Hubby and Little Joel (Liverpool) for helping us enjoy our holiday even more.
Victoria Gray
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Brian & Gladys McCalden from Belfast (Newtownabbey) travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Organsied ourselves
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We booked our own flights (last minute) ex Dublin (Ryan Air) and return to Belfast (EasyJet) and was offered the Benalmadena Palace as four star accommodation (studio) for just under £100 each for a week in early March through one of the www sites.
What a choice! The hotel is brilliant. The rooms are spotless, the staff are to a man (or woman), professional, courteous and pleasant.
Our first room was ‘sans’ balcony, so we requested a change at once and were able to move to a rooftop studio alternative after just one night.
Not that there was a great deal else wrong with the room. It was just as the second room, clean, well furnished and while compact, plenty of space for two people.
The ‘attic’ studio we moved to had an unusual bedroom, with a sloping roof, (so mind your head), but was well fitted out with cleverly designed mirrored wardrobes that snuggled into the available space, a proper mini kitchen (with microwave). It had all we could have needed had we had an overwhelming desire to actually cook more than morning or evening tea/coffee and snacks. We enjoy eating out, which turned out to be a reasonable – though no longer ‘cheap’ proposition.
The small balcony also benefited from not being overlooked by anyone, (other than the sun every afternoon and the stars at night), although being seated for morning coffee meant you couldn’t see below to the pool, you have to be standing to see over the parapet.
Much of the activities are pool based, though, given the early time of year, no one was venturing into the outdoor pool, choosing instead to enjoy the bright and open indoor pool, with sauna and steam room etc.
But, away from such distractions: The hotel is large (and very new, being only six years or so old) and offers 182 fully equipped studios and one bedroom apartments.
Self-catering guests can choose to pay for half board, which can be taken in any variation you want, which h is handy.
There is restaurant offering (unremarkable) buffet food and an attended chef grill, while the snack bar terrace is at he outside pool area (all day during summer season and limited hours during winter), where many spring evenings began with the early ‘two-for-one’ Happy Hour’ at ‘teatime’.
Speaking of Happy - We usually dismiss the hotel entertainment, and head out to the brighter lights around, but quickly found that the in-house (even out of season) entertainment was the best!
Don’t expect Las Vegas shows, but do expect to get lots of enthusiasm, a real opportunity for audience participation and a bloody good laugh!
Helped of course by the (much) later second Happy Hour at the bar, with the overall ‘craic’ carried on until after 2am: but then we’re (just) over 50 and have found, almost universally, that the (slightly) older generation know how to enjoy themselves on holidays – or at least –‘our crowd’, as we came to know them did!
What a holiday, and all just last minute. What must it be like in the season?
Oh! Moreover, to the comments on ‘The Hill’.
We hired a car on arrival, (at @ £80 for eight days) so it didn’t count, but I can see that on a hot summer’s day, after the ‘dander’ along the long promenade (where there’s lots of shops and restaurants there to enjoy), it would be a hard slog up the final slope. So, just be aware of that.
Also: on building work: there is nowhere in Costa del Sol that doesn’t have building sites, and there was indeed work going on towards the landward side of the hotel, which I would say will be completed by summer season 2007.
The secret is, if you are not happy with your accommodation: ask to change! Politely, buy firmly; tell them you are not happy. They will do their utmost to look after you.
We had no complaints, so get on the www. and check out the opportunities just a three-hour flight even from Belfast.
It is well worth it!
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glyn from accrington travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
my travel
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We travelled in March this year my girlfriend and I.
Although the place was very clean our hoilday rep wasn't very nice at all. He never looked at us when we talked to him so we found him very rude I think I would go back again if he wasnt there.
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Mr &Mrs J Spence from gatehouse of fleet travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 01 2007 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We booked aoa with airtours and ended up in this hotel i was amazed, the standard was brilliant for the money, everything from the food to the rooms were excellent.
The apartments were roomy and very clean the staff were very friendly, also they had english staff working there. The choice of food was vast something for everybodys taste.
A great hotel and a wonderful holiday would recomend to all. The only downfall was its location up a steep hill.
We had both mums with us and had hired a car which was needed.
But you can go into the hotel next door and go to the ground floor in there lift and you come out at the bottom of the hill in the underground car park and do the same on the way back.
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jade from Nottingham travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Medhotels
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 11 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed in the Benalmadena Palace for 5nights.. We had read mixed reviews on the internet some good some bad!
On arrival we checked in (nice & easy) all of the staff on reception were happy to help & spoke very good english! The hotel in general was very clean & there wasnt nothing to complain about... However we had 3 rooms 2 of which were very clean & tidy, the other smelt of cigaratte smoke (all of us are non smokers) & generally quite grubby.We phoned down to reception and they sent someone up within 5mins to clean the room!! So top marks for that! The only other bad thing i would say about the rooms is there was 2 single beds made to look like a double, so they wernt very comfetable!
The hotel entertainment staff were brilliant, every night there was a different act on all of which were surperb! The kids entertainment was just as good!! During the day there was something for everyone from grannies to toddlers! We was very impressed!! Happy hour is very good & we went there most nights you get a good shot of vodka!! ;-)
The pool areas are brillaint indoor & outdoor! Then theres the jacuzzi,sauna & gym! All very good. Theres also a huge games room for kids with lots of pool tables etc...
The main thing that lets the hotel down has to be the location. It is a long walk to the centre harbour area and by long i mean 35-45mins! Most nights we got a taxi which cost between 5euro & 7euro, the prices changed everynight, so do check before you get in & agree a price! Theres a place called 24hrsq were all the bars/clubs are its usually BOGOF on all drinks, and its about 6euro a drink. So not too bad.
Transport in around the area is cheap & run on time! We used trains, buses & taxis and found none of them to be a problem. The bus stops are at the bottom of the hill!
Theres plenty to do in and around the area. We went to Malaga,Torrelmnious,Feungriola & Puerto Banus. The chair lifts in benalamdena are brill & if you go on a clear day the views are breathtaking! On past trips to Benalmadena we have also been to the waterparks,crocodile park, sealife centre & to the lakes!! There is something for everyone.
For good places to eat i would recommmend going upto Arroya (the top end of Benalamadena) and going to The Wok a chinese all you can eat buffet for about 12 euro, it was the best meal we had while we was there! Its very modern/clean like something you would see back home! Another good place to eat is about 2mins away from the train station on the main road called JJ's! They do 12oz steaks but i think i was more a 18oz! Also had sunday dinner there & could not fault it!!! So if your up that way pop in you wont be disappointed.
The beach is in easy walking distance ive got to say though its not that niceist. For a beatiful beach pop on the train to Carajal heading towards Fuengirola.
Last but not least Ive got to mention the HILL!!! Its really not that bad at all. If your young fit & healthy it shouldnt cause you any problems however I can see the problem with older/people with walking disablites..
I think Ive just about mentioned everything. All I can say is I will definitely be returning in the summer. =)
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russ foames from north wales travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
going places
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 11 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Well if your going on holiday to Benalmadena you have to stay at the best hotel there, The Benalmadena Palace it was excellent.
Reception is very helpful when you arrive deposit is 60 euros which will be refunded there two bar both on the lower floors between 5-6 happy hour and 10-11 happy hour buy one drink get one free, 3 euros a pint.
The food is excellent and the buffet is awesome all you can eat for 13 euros adult 8.50 kids.
Two outdoor pool and a indoor pool and jacuzzi plus spa and gym a 4 lifts a shop plus loads more, excellent entertainment we had a parrot show, snake show, bingo, discos, comedy, loads for the kids plus so much more.
Best hotel I've ever been to and as for the hill its a bit hard but after all the drink its good to walk it off cut through downstairs carpark and you miss half the hill out.
As for me I'm going back asap when you go say a big hola to Karla shes great enjoy your holiday p.s Tivoli World and Selwo Marina have great dolphins.
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Ryan family from nuneaton travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We were recommended to this hotel by our travel agent manager she goes there every year. Upon arrival we were given our keys and it was on the top floor, an attic, so small you couldn't swing a cat in it. After several visits to the reception we were told we could upgrade to a 1 bedroom apartment, which was what we thought we were in to start with at a cost of 10euros per night. When we approached the rep she was no help at all and didn't seem to be bothered she never smiled no good morning nothing.
We found the entertainment boring the big screen was in the disco bar so the we had to watch that whilst the music was blaring.
Most of the staff were lovely but a few of them were really rude.
There was building sites to two sides of the hotel.
The indoor pool and spa were nice and so were the activities for young children.
No I wouldn't go there again.
It was clean and we had a lovely maid called Vanessa nothing was too much trouble
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k Harrison from derby travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
aiit tours
on a friends holiday.
There were 6 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We visited this hotel recently and would return again.
The staff were extremely helpful and friendly.
The rooms were cleaned nearly every day towels changed every day and bins emptied every day.
We didn't use the restaurant but from what we could gather from other guests the food was nice and plentiful. We did use the snack bar and that was delicious they also have an outdoor BBQ with a good selection.
The hill, yes it is a good one, the first bit isn,t to bad if u take it steady, the last bit is very steep but you can avoid this by using the lift in the hotel. Go down to nought walk through the car park and out of the door at the end. Your door key will open the smallest door you are then half way down do the same for coming back and you save yourself a lot of gasping and grunting.
The hotel and location were on the whole terrific and we will be sure to visit again.
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Sheila Hood from Glasgow travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
independent
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed in the Benalmadena Palace. On arrival we were disappointed in the location of the hotel but had already been aware of the steep incline.
The reception area was pleasant and modern and although our room wasn't ready, we were offered a drink whilst we waited.
The one bedroom apartment was adequate for our young family but the lock on the bedroom window was broken and the room was certainly not spotless although you couldn't say it was filthy either. We contacted reception and anything we pointed out was rectified ASAP.
The pool area was quite off-putting to begin with as all the sun loungers were squashed together but thanks to the respectful nature of the client-group staying at the hotel the pool area was a very pleasant place to send the day. There were lots of activities too which kept out 8 yr old happy!(The pool area could also do with a bit of a clean)
All in all, we were pleased with our holiday but we had a very lazy cleaner who kept forgetting to empty the bins and replace linen.If the hotel was rated 3 star we would have been impressed but as a 4 star, it does lack something.
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Armstrong from Newcastle travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Going Places
on a friends holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just returned from holiday,and having read previous reports,had went with some trepidation about hotel and resort.
But have just had most fantastic holiday,hotel fantastic,staff friendly and approachable,rep brilliant.Rooms clean, modernand decent size.
Went self catering so cant comment on hotel food,but plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.We shopped in nearby supermarket bottleof wine 50cents/35p,2ltr orange juice 70ents/50p so cheap.
We mainly went to beach about 5 mins from hotel sand
shingly and very hot, but very clean one word of warning
the shore on santa ana playa shelves into sea and within 10ft of beach its about 6ft deep.
Would definetly recommend trip to Gibraltar tour guides fantastic and the apes amazing dont switch your video camera off when there around so funny.
Marina beautiful ,I could go on. Would definitly go back.
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Alison from Manchester travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct Holidays
on a friends holiday.
There were 4 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I Have to say we couldn't fault the overall standard of this hotel. We Stayed in a 2 bedroomed apartment, which was a brilliant size with lots of storage space, and even 2 bathrooms.
The staff were all a really good laugh, very welcoming and always willing to help.We found one of the lifeguards particularly amusing, if you talk to him you will understand why, just a lovely guy. We also loved the reception staff, they were very friendly and there are also a few characters there to.
I have to say to those people who have read any bad reviews, if you are generally easily pleased then you will absolutely adore this hotel. We found during our stay that the people who had complaints to make were generally complaining about very petty things.
The hotel was clean, a fantastic size with magnificent facilties! The hill was manageable, and no way near as bad as people make it out to be. In fact we found the hotel quite refreshing to be situated on an unusual setting, it made you feel safe and secluded rather than facing busy roads, and bustling pavements.
The location is good, we generally got taxis to the marina which cost about 8euros; this worked out at about £1.20 each one way which is fantastic if you think about it. The marina is a fantastic place for restaurants and shops, we ate there as much as we could. But if you don't fancy venturing, there are enought restaurants around the hotel and beach to keep you happy.
Although we are aged 19-23 we didn't go out clubbing, as the entertainment and space/atmosphere at the bar in the hotel was magnificent. Happy hour runs between 10 and 11pm, so it was easy to get your fair share of drink without having to spend too much. Plus there was the advantage of being able to only travel in the lift to your bed, rather than having to trundle home at a silly hour.
Overall the holiday was amazing, we would recommend it to anyone who can cope with the walk up the hill. If you are going there soon, let me tell you i'm jealous of you, because your holiday will be everything and more!
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Patrick Murphy from Dublin travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
self booked
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Couldnt fault this hotel.
The rooms were a good size and the A/C was a blessing when coming back after a long walk in the sun.
As for the famous hill it turned out to be no trouble either just go through the car park or even better go out the back way. near the indoor pool you will find a path that leads down to the main road and supermarket. you need your key to open the gate but it isnt steep at all.
I did like the little extras they did like when you are at the pool the staff brings out trays of melon or fruit for you. although my eyes almost popped out of my head when just after some melon i seen them come out with trays of beer. sadly it was for a table.
The kids loved the pool and spent most of the day in it.
The food wasnt too great and we walked to the marina most nights to eat.
i have one of those kids who is a very fussy eater and didnt like anything at the hotel. thats why the walk to the marina. we found a lovely place there that my son loved.
We would go back again next year if not the only reason would be to get a hotel closer to the marina
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K Robinson from Blackpool travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
booked independantly
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I had read the reviews on this site before I went and was not sure what to make of the hotel but the truth is its not that bad, its no way comparable to a 4 star hotel in the uk, but you can tell its not been open that long as there is no flaking paint, battered furniture or broken facilities.
The hill.... well, its in two parts, the first part has a steep incline but no more so than hills found up and down the cornish coast, I broke my toe 3 weeks before we went away and I could manage the first part of the hill at a steady pace. The second part of the hill is steep but you cut across the car park and get the lift up so its no bother - as long as you have a room card to swipe you can always get in the car park. we tried the hotel food a couple of times - pallitable but you wouldn't want to eat it every day. Alex the hotel entertainment was very good but you sometimes wished that he had a volume control!
Pool area was nice and the indoor pool was a lovely constant warm temprature. Tellys in the room get bbc1, 2 and 3.
So the bad points... we were on the fifth floor facing out towards benalmedina, directly opposite they are building a major new apartment complex and they start early!! If you are on this side your balcony will be constantly covered in dust, also this side of the hotel gets the sun in the morning only which is nice but by 11.30 its gone for the day. But the absolute worst thing about the hotel is its position in Benalmedina, its basically on the (very main!) road out of town and the lovely marina is on the complete other side of the town, it couldn't be any more further away if you tried! It is positioned in what appears to be a more residential area of benalmedina with a handfull of bars and places to eat, you will find thats why the hotel has a lot of entertianmnet on as people stay in the hotel because they get fed up with having to pay for a taxi into those areas of benalmendina 'with life'.
Finally we stayed in room 516 - the bathroom smelt odd the moment we got there, we were all sick during the course of the two weeks and although there is no way of knowing what caused our sickness, the cause of the smell of waste pipes/sewage may have something to do with it
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Steve C from Wigan travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
My Travel
on a couples holiday.
There were 4 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 02 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel room was clean and spacious we had a poolside view on the fifth floor, our linen was changed
every other day and cleaned when requested.
The hotel food store was quite small and basic,We ate meals in the hotel on a few occasions and thought there was a good choice of menu and it was quite nice.
We were disappointed with the location of the hotel not only was it miles from the resort centre but the description of its hilside location left much to be desired. It is located at the top of two very steep inclines the second brings to mind mount everest.
We did use the elevator to the hotel garage on our way
down to the sea front on our first day, but on our return found it to be closed and had to walk up both inclines to the hotel reception, upon walking up the hills my wife sustained three fractures to her right foot.The brochure should read due to its mountain top Location... etc.
The staff were friendly helpful and spoke good English.
The entertainment was average holiday style as you would expect but Alex the childrens entertainer was fantastic.
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j almond from leeds travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were more than 6 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 02 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: When we got there & saw the hill we were a bit worried as my parents are in there 70's & dad has had a heart attack so we were worried about him but he was great & it didn't worry him.
If you go half way up the hill you get to the underground car park & walking through there you get to the lifts that take you up to the rooms.
The hotel was spotless & our rooms were spacious, we had a 2 bedroomed apartment which was big, 2 bathrooms, twin beds in each bedroom with built in wardrobes, the sofa opened out in to 2 single beds. There was 2 hob rings, a microwave,fridge, kettle & toaster. In the main bathroom there was an over bath shower, bidet, toilet & sink, also a hair dryer. In the second bathroom there was a lowered shower with chair so easy for the disabled to use.
The door opens with a card key that you then put in the slot near the inside of the door to put the electric on, remember if you go out to leave a card in if you put anything in the fridge, you can get spare cards from reception.
We were a bit disapointed at the distance to the Marina, about 4 to 5 miles but its a lovely walk & plenty of shops to look in.
We ate in the hotel for about 5 nights & then ate out as we found the hotel food was getting a bit boring. It was €6.50 for breakfast & €11.99 for the evening meal which both were buffet type, plenty to eat though.
We found a great place to eat on the front called the Penny Farthing, the food was great & staff very friendly, a mega breakfast was €5.50 & evening mael about €8.00.
We had our 3 yr old grandson with us & he loved the evening disco with Alex & also the parrot show on a Saturday evening.
All in all we had a great 2 weeks & re booked to go again next year 4 days after returning.
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Shaz and Amanda from Oxford travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
My travel
on a singles holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 01 2006 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: When we booked are holiday we expected to leave the hotel every night as we are both young and single, but Tad and Alex (the entertainers)were so amazing and funny they really do have outstanding personalities. We left only once the whole week we stayed there.
The hotel is very clean, we had no complaints to make on that subject.
The pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and gym are the best part of the hotel we spent are days there and are nights in the disco bar.
The bar staff are very fast! We got our drinks as soon as we reached the bar.
The hill could be a problem... if it wasn't for the hotel next door, just go in their lift and you step out at the bottom of the hill.
Very nice food, lots of choice.
We will be coming back.
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j spencer from manchester travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 12 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just returned after staying for xmas and new year.
The hotel was very clean, the maids came in every other day.
Food was very good, quite a lot of variety but did not cater for children. Mine lived on chips and rice for the two weeks and there was chicken nuggets on twice.
Disappointed with situation of hotel, not many things nearby. The hill is not long,going down ok but very very steep on the way up.
The hotel staff were very friendly and all spoke english. Although I do think more were needed in the snack bar and disco bar.
Alex and Tad the entertainers were brilliant,my 22month old son loved Alex, he was very good with the kids... and adults of all ages.
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Wilson from Aberdeen travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct Holidays
on a singles holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Nice Hotel, Shame about the hill
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Tina Wait from Manchester travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
My Travel
on a family holiday.
There were 6 adults and 4 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed at Benalmadena Palace on the 18th aug 2005 for 2 weeks and we loved every bit of it.
The hotel had every thing u could wish for to make a fantasic holiday.
The Apartment itself was very posh with a pool veiw which was great.
The cleaners was in every other day Cleaning changing bedding, towels, bin's ect.The Staff was amazing spoke very good English. Three brilliant pool's.
We also enjoyed trying out the Sauna, gym, jacuzzi, arcade and Cinema. We loved the BBQ next to the outside pool.The Restaurant was a very high standard, and the 2 Bar's with Happy Hour was really good buy one get one free. The entertainment staff was really good fun.
There were even pc's with internet I would most definitely return to BENALMADENA PALACE in the near furture, and would reccommed it to anyone.
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Sophie from Ireland travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct holidays
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Hotel was brill! Evening entertainment wonderful. Bar staff lovely, very chatty and would do anything for you if you asked. Also most of the male workers were very goodlooking!!
Hotel clean although 1 bed room a bit small for 4 people. Maids friendly and nice.
Only fault is the hill but sure walk slow and your fine!! Definitly returning, most enjoyable holiday ever. WE LOVED IT!!!
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G.Elder from Peterhead travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct Travel
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel is rated as 4 star,in our opinion one star would be a better mark.
The hotel itself is quite good but look under the beds and setting areas and you will find dirt.
All the staff are trained to a very high standard and could not be faulted,from reception, bar, catering,cleaning and entertainment staff they were without a doubt the best,they made your holiday so much better.
Although we had a room in the 7th floor,sloping bedroom roof,it was ok,with a/c,shower,bath,t.v.hair drier etc.
The main down points of the hotel are as follows,if you are elderly of in poor health this hotel is not for you. The hill from the main road to thehotel front door is very,very steep, and the rear path to the main road/supremarket is also steep.
You can use the lift to the car park then you only have a half hill to climb. You could use local taxis but this would give you less spending money.
I do not care what the brochures state or what anyone else states the hill is very steep.
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l dixon from newcastle upon tyne travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel is a lovely clean hotel. Maid service was good, sometimes though we had to ask reception to get cleaners bring us towels and clean bins out.
We had 2 children with us and there wasn't much planned kid's activities anytime, there are things for them to do but you had to be with them.
overall it's a lovely clean hotel but not much for small children.
Anybody with walking difficulty walking I would not suggest this hotel, only if your prepared to pay for taxi's everywhere.
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marjie from hull travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 5 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Having just returned from this hotel I can say I was very disappointed in finding the rooms had not been cleaned and other peoples rubbish still in the room.
he hotel public areas were very clean but the apartments we where in, were very dirty. It took from Sunday until Thursday for the bathroom to be cleaned.
We had no change of sheets or towels for the whole week,I have stayed in 4 star hotels before and I am a travel adviser and this hotel does not come up to that standard.
I will not advise people to stay there if they thought it was going to be a 4 star. Having been round the pool area I can also say people were saving sunbeds and not turning up till 4pm, I think the hotel should do something about this.
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Tina yeates from Ireland travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Panorama
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We were really looking forward to our holiday as I had read a lot of good reveiws on this hotel, it was what we imagined very new and well kept. There is a lovely indoor pool as it was cold in the outdoor one. The rooms werent huge but we survived. I would go back to this hotel if it was in another resort, didnt like Belemadena not a lot to do or not a lot of good restaurants.
There is a beautiful park about 15 minutes walk away with a big lake and the ducks, chickens and rabbits run freely the baby loved it. We also enjoyed the marine park. The crocodile park in Torrmelinos was great you get to hold a baby crocodile.
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allison from west yorkshire travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: After reading the mixed reviews on this hotel we were very apprehensive to say the least!
We were very pleasantly surprised upon arrival. The reception area was very plush indeed, with lovely marble floors, and we actually got dropped off and picked up from outside the hotel (Not 100 yards away). We were on the fourth floor overlooking the pool (Which is well worth paying the extra for), as we wouldn't have fancied overlooking the main road.
The rooms were spacious enough, and were cleaned every other day, the towels replaced every other day too.
We did have dinner there one night,(Buffet style -11 euros adult, and 5.50 euros a child up to age of twelve), although I thought the food was more of a three star standard rather than four star standard, nothing special at all, think I would have been quite miffed if I had paid for half board!
The children’s entertainer was absolutely brilliant (Alex), with various swimming activities, archery, basketball, etc. my son had a ball, and let’s face it happy kids equal happy parents!!!
The indoor pool was lovely and warm, the outdoor pool quite cold, but once you were in for a couple of mins, it wasn't quite so bad. The gym was well equipped from what I saw, went in for a peek.
The evening entertainment was varied (Children’s entertainment finished about 10, there was karaoke, games, and prizes given out to whoever came 1st, 2nd, and third, for the daytime activities). The evening entertainment was quite good, (Mr. and Mrs., bingo, karaoke, quiz nights,).
The hotel could have done with more bar staff, as service was quite slow at times, and the supermarket in reception is really tiny (It's not much bigger than a telephone box!!), but there is a great supermarket called Super Sol, go to bottom of road turn left, past Coco's, and about 200yards on your left you will see it, absolutely brilliant!
Forgot to mention the hill, it's not a problem at all, like other reviews have mentioned go down to 0 in the lift it will bring you out to the garage, just use the card for your room in the door, that will open, and you have cut the first hill out. If you want to cut the second hill out (I'm saying hill, would probably be best to describe it as a extremely slight incline, about 1 min walk), you can nip into the Vistamar apartments, and use their lift and it will bring you out at the very bottom.
All in all an extremely brilliant hotel well worthy of the 4*, would recommend this hotel, and would definitely go back, if the hotel was not in Benalmadena, but that's another story, will do my resort report now.
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Emma,Sarah Arnold Darren Batchelor from Souhampton travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 3 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This hotel has very mixed opions. Though during my stay at the Benalmadena Hotel, I could not find fault.
The staff were very helpful, on the first night we did not have enough bedding, reception sorted this out straight away and could not apolgies enough.
The room had plenty of space and very clean, with enough wardrobe space and drawers, everything we needed for the self catering was there. We asked for a sea view and got this free of charge.
There was some building work going on but this started later in the day and did not last very long, I have only mentioned this because of reading other comments.
The entertainment was good, and varied throughout the day and the evening.
We only ate at the snack bar a couple of times and the food was ok there.
Reception do ask for a copy of visa card, this is to cover for any breakages, I don't think this is unusual as I have stayed at many hotels asking for this request.
I though the only downside was the hill, though cant complain about this as it does state in the airtours brochure. - use the lift to avoid the hill!
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w huddy from wiltshire travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a friends holiday.
There were 3 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Please beware that even though the hotel was lovely when our party booked we were not informed of the building work going on which could be seen from the 1 bed apartments.
After going on line to find out more about the resort we were only then informed of the two villas being built, we were told that they were completed on April 1st 2005 and that only the 2 bed apartments would see them.
This was not the case as we were in a 1 bed apartment, and on arrival pulling back the curtains then came across 7 villas not 2. Also in the brochure it states this hotel having 165 rooms 4 floors and 4 lifts.
Sorry to inform you that this is not the case, there are infact 7 floors 728 rooms of which 182 are apartments,so infact the hotel is a lot larger than stated, but still a nice hotel despite the location of the hill.
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Tracy and Tony from Leeds travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Airtours
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed at the Benalmadina place for a week in April, my husband and I can not say a bad word for the hotel. We found the hotel to be very clean.
If you requested more towels for you room they was brought straight away. Staff could not have been more helpful. We ate in the hotel every day and the food we could not fault,
It was hot, well cooked and tasty,( which makes a nice change). The Hotels location, well there is a big hill outside, but during the day you can use the hotel vistas lift from thier car park up most of it then use the palaces liftup. No hill. Night time take the hill slow and steady its not that bad !!!.
We enjoyed our stay here and we will come again with the children.
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glen mccallum from coventry travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
my travel lite
on a singles holiday.
There were more than 6 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Hello all. This hotel, in my opinion, was very good there were 9 of us all lads on a stag weekend
We had a great room on the 7th floor right at the end. It had two balconies, kitchen, bathroom, shower lots of little shampoo and soaps stuff. There were 2 bedrooms but 1 was for a little baby with a cot in it, also it had a double bed settee. The room was clean although when your on a stag do with the lads the bed was the last thing on your mind when you rolled in at night.
Yes there was a pool outside which was freezing but there was an indoor pool Jacuzzi, sauna, gym and a steam room which in my opinion were all top marks.
The only downfall to this hotel was the walk from the road to the reception.
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J Perkins from Blackpool travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Airtours
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Booked to stay at the Benalmadena Palace and was absolutely dreading what we would get after reading this site... which is why I thought I would post a review, after my stay there last week, to put all those people who have booked's minds at rest!
First of all, the approach to the hotel may worry you when you first get there as there is building work going on in the area (which Airtours did not tell us about but I had gathered from other reviews) and the way the coach takes you makes you feel like its up a mountain in the middle of nowhere - but it isn't - really!
Once you get inside the hotel it is really lovely.
Cleanliness
Communal areas are clean and tidy. The staff are polite and our room, a studio on the 7th floor, was fine. We were pleasantly surprised to get a bedroom (shame the bed was hard though) as we were expecting to sleep on a settee bed in the lounge, with it being a studio. The room was very clean, there was complimentary bottled water and fresh fruit on arrival and in the bathroom there were fresh clean towels and complimentary toiletries. The room was cleaned (including bed changed and fresh towels provided) 3 times during our stay of one week which was just right. There was a balcony which was very private as it was in the sloping roof but if you stood up and leaned against the ledge we had a view of the pool below, to the left the sea and to the right the mountains - beautiful.
Food
We didn't use the restaurant but we ate some meals at the snack bar (pizza, chips, sandwiches - all good) and the prices of drinks in the bars were very reasonable too.
There is a small on site shop and a nearby supermarket off site (5 minute walk) which we used for breakfast supplies and light snacks didn't actually do any cooking in our room - but who wants to when they are on holiday? Not me.
Entertainment
The entertainment was typical hotel style - y'know, a bit of cabaret, comedian, music quiz and kids entertainment, that kind of thing. What we saw of it was fine and the bar was full most nights.
Location
Yes, the hotel is set on a small hill but I would say it is only a problem for people with walking difficulties - there are plenty of shortcuts which are already mentioned on the site and which your rep or other holidaymakers will tell you about if you don't want to tackle it - we used the 'taking a lift down to the parking area' shortcut most times (get in the lift and press '0').
There are restaurants and bars closer than you think. We found a row of about 6 open air cafes/restaurants to eat out at if you turn left at the bottom of the hill (they are next to McDonalds - about a 5-10 minute walk from the hotel) and we ate at one called the 'Penny Farthing' which was very good and offered an extensive vegetarian menu for anyone interested.
The Beach nearest the hotel is a bit of a disappointment as it is a bit pebbly and full of what the sea has washed up but if you walk further along you will find a good spot and you can hire 2 sunbeds with comfy mattresses and a parasol for 7 euros. If you want to go further along towards Torremolinos, the walk along the promenade is absolutely gorgeous with palm trees all the way along, mosaic tiling and various artists’ designs in the floor at intervals. Bars and restaurants are all the way along the promenade and it is a really pleasant walk to the Marina where there are gorgeous views, opportunities for boat trips, shops and lots of places to eat and drink.
Yes, there are a lot of street traders in the area and they are annoying but we just said a firm 'no thank you' to whatever they were selling and they didn't pester us.
We had a great holiday - for a week in the sun this is a lovely place to come and relax
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Burlingham-Hall from Ashby-de-la-Zouch travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Airtours
on a friends holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2005 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Although there were only three in our party, we opted for a two bedroom apartment which was very spacious. There was a large entrance hall, lounge and kitchenette. The appliances in the kitchen were very limited so it was impossible to cook anything other than beans on toast for breakfast.
There were no instructions on how to use the combi/micro oven and the cooker hood vented back into the room. The bedrooms were spacious with plenty of storage and the room safe was worthwhile paying for. We had a bathroom with good shower over the bath and a bidet; and next to that a wet room.
The sofa was rather dirty and smelly. We had to sweep up the floor on arrival as that was disgusting. Plenty of white towels that were changed regularly and baskets of toiletries were on hand.
The balcony was disappointing - we asked for a sea view and got the building works and it was definitely not private even up on the 5th Floor. We did not use the children's club, entertainment, trips, restaurant/snack bar, outside facilities so can't comment on these.
The indoor swimming pool was OK but crowded. We were alarmed when we were asked to pay €60 or leave an imprint of a credit card on arrival for "damages deposit"; we were not pre-warned of this. Those checking out when we got there advised us not to use a credit card as the hotel retained the copy.
We would return, but only because it is a good base to go travelling around the resort on your own steam.
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mr j rice from glasgow travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 12 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: For a supposedly 4 star hotel this place was filthy. If you get star ratings for having vomit stains on the soft furnishings, dirty marks all over all of the walls and leaving litter lying on the stairs then perhaps it is but I thought it was supposed to signify the facilities and general standard of the property.
We were allocated room 713 when we arrived which had not been cleaned so were then given room 703. This room had the stained sofa and also had sloping ceilings so you banged your head if you stood up after getting out of bed or leaving the dining table.
There is also masses of building work going on adjacent to this property which airtours don't seem too keen to tell you about. The indoor pool was freezing, the childrens games area had vandalised pool tables with blood stain on wall and disco bar understaffed as well as having the worst entertainment I have endured for some time. For example the hogmanay entertainment was the rep singing ( deep joy eh?). I hope they are a good rep.
The jacuzzi and sauna are fine if you can get the kids out of them long enough. Don't be scared off by the hill it isn't the only bad thing about this place. Hopefully this property will be re-assessed and given the rating it deserves or the staff it requires to justify the rating it has.
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Mr. Johnson from Crystal Palace travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Panorama
on a singles holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Some observations of our recent stay at the Benalmadena Palace.
The hill.
Not too bad and only a problem if you're unfit or have a walking disability.
The Pool.
Freezing cold outdoor pool. Indoor pool area was OK but quite often dirty. Plenty of sunbeds available at all times. Sauna room was OK but often out of order. The steam room door didn't close properly and was out of bounds for the whole week of our stay. The Gymnasium was small but nobody used it.
The Restaurant/bar.
Only had a sandwich and a coffee at the poolside snack bar which was OK.
The Bar in the evening was a real let down. Not enough bar staff meant you sometimes had to wait 15 minutes for a drink. Children were allowed to run around unsupervised. The entertainment was non existent so they just played CD's very loudly making it impossible to strike up conversation with other holiday makers. Very poor service, glasses were left lying around for hours, never once saw the staff clean tables or collect plates etc.
Our room.
A nice big room on the fifth floor overlooking the pool. Very noisy at night times. Horrible sewage smell coming from the bathroom in the mornings, only seemed to go away when people were up and using water/flushing toilets. The maids came every other day but didn't once sweep the room. Don't think they checked the cupboards/fridge when people left as we found some butter, water and a few cans of beer on our arrival.
The Rep.
Can't remember much about her even though we attended the meeting on the first day. She couldn't answer some of the questions put to her and gave some poor advice regarding the trip to Gibraltar. We wondered if she was being serious when suggesting we spend a whole day at the marina at Puerto Banus eyeing up the rich and famous. To be fair she was quite young and it was possibly her first time abroad herself so not a good candidate for a rep in my opinion.
The resort.
Quite a nice place to visit but a week was more than enough. The usual timeshare/street traders giving you hassle, sadly just a part of your holiday in Spain nowadays. Plenty of bars and nightlife in nearby Torremolinos, we avoided the British places after the first days breakfast experience.
The highlight.
The cable car ride up the mountain on market day.
We wouldn't go back to the Benalmadena Palace again.
To complete our week, we had a 7 hour delay back to Gatwick on our return flight.
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Jackie from Fife travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Stayed at this hotel for one week. Our room was located on the 6th floor overlooking the pool (although we paid extra for this). The rooms were a typical layout for a 1-bedroom apartment but there were too many tables (6 in all) and not any drawer space! There was no sweeping brush in the room either and when you're self catering with two kids you need a brush! On the plus side the bathroom was great - had a separate shower cubicle as well as a bath/shower - handy when you're all trying to get ready at the same time. Did have problems with a horrible smell appearing in the bathroom but on reporting this to reception we had a maintenance man to sort the problem out very quickly. He explained this is a common problem with a new hotel, but doesn't know why. Our patio doors didn't lock but hubby fixed this himself. Maids were in and out frequently to change towels and empty rubbish bin but did only change bedding once in the week.
Ate dinner in the hotel on 3 nights. Food was OK but I agree with previous comments - there wasn't enough staff and they did seem pre-occupied with getting there own dinner or chatting. On our last night all our plates were piled up at the side of our table and it was still like that while we were eating our desserts!
My kids went to Airtours kids club and really enjoyed their time there - big thanks to Carol and Jo. Didn't see much of the hotels evening entertainment but it looked really empty in the Disco bar whenever we passed by.
Outside pool, although lovely, was too cold for us (lifeguard was on duty everyday). We made full use of the indoor heated pool which was almost the same size as the outside one. There was also a small sunbed area just outside the indoor pool area which was very handy for me.
Hotel was located in a quiet area of Benalmadena. We did a lot of walking but often just hopped on/off the buses to get to the Marina etc. Cost only 95 cents each and we could even get to neighbouring Torremelinos for this price.
Enjoyed our week but won't be rushing back to this hotel or the Benalmadena area.
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Michael Moore from Bolton travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Independent
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said:I have stayed in over 100 4 Star hotels in the last 4 years on business and pleasure. This was by far the worst.
We booked the hotel separately on a half-board basis, and used an AVIS hire car from the airport - their advertised price for a Corsa was doubled by the time insurance and mileage was taken into account.
The hotel allocated us a studio apartment on the 7th floor under the roof and we had to bend double to get round the bed. There was no window or drawer space in the bedroom. Probably a health and safety issue there! The noise from the Air Conditioning Unit on the roof was terrible. The beds and towels were only changed once during the week and the refuse not removed at all.
The dining room was like the Marie Celeste. Few people ate there even though the food was good. The service was awful with the staff on duty too busy talking or making up their own meals to clear the tables. There was only one wine list for the whole room for 5 days.
Around the pool it was impossible to move because of the compact arrangement of the sun-beds.
Trips to Gibraltar, Mijas and Granada made the week just about bareable.
This was my first visit to the area and I will not be rushing back. Certainly not to that hotel.
Further details of the entire holiday are on my web-site www.mjmoore.org.uk
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verna king from halifax travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
mytravel
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This is not a four star hotel, we stayed a week and did not have the room or bed changed once.
The pool and sauna were dirty, the entertainment a joke, it was always cancelled. One night the dancers had a cold and one night the parrot show couldn't turn up as it was raining.
Ony one or two bar staff so it takes about fifteen mins to get a drink.
The rooms are also very noisey and far too small. All our stay we had to put up with building work going on right outside.
We had a room for four people, but had only one spoon, two glasses, and three chairs.
We liked Benalmadena and we had a great trip to Gibraltar, the hill to the hotel did not bother us at all, but it was not worth climbing to get to this hotel.
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SG from SCOTLAND travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
AIRTOURS
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Would not rate this as a 4 star hotel.
Pool and surrounding area never cleaned the two weeks we were there.
Hill not as bad as expected after reading reveiws.
Building work going on which we were not told of in advance.
Our apartment was broken into one night and we had items stolen (not the only ones we found out later) hotel management along with Airtours rep did not want to know. Found police to be more helpful.
Also very suspicious of reception staff taking photo copies of passports and credit cards on arrival, no evidence of these being destroyed on departure.
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L.H. from Wrexham travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct Holidays
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel was very good. The entertainer tried his very best but could do with a team to help him. Children do just run round wild. The only real problem was that as soon as you get to this hotel they photocopy your visa card number. We asked three times for the photocopy back but was met with excuses. When we asked on departure we got told that it had been destroyed. Let's hope they was telling the truth.
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Andrew & Marilyn Turner from Burnham-on-Sea travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct Holidays
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Stayed in Benalmadena Palace for a week from 17 Oct and enjoyed our stay very much.
The apartment was a good size with good facilities, the only draw back was our room was at the end of the hotel where some new villas were being built so there was some building noise but it wasn't that bad.
The hill, wasn't as bad as expected no problems with that, the outside pool was cold but plenty of room around to sunbathe.
Had a couple of meals in the restaurant which were good but didn't rate the evening entertainment much probably why not many people in there, have seen a lot better elsewhere.
Good quite location, no noise to keep you awake at night, but be prepared to to a lot of walking.
Yes would go back again.
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rob hopkins from trowbridge travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
panoramic
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 4 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just got back! Yes the hill is very steep, but use the underground car park to make it easier. I found that the music and the entertainment was played too loud. There was also very little management intervention on unruly and noisy kids. We requested low floor with pool view. We got the view but on the 5th floor. That was better really because we were farther away from the noise. The pools were good although the outside pool was very cold. Plenty of sun loungers to be had inside and out. Every morning our bathroom smelt of sewer and foul smelling drains. I complained the first morning and the second morning but nothing was done. It seemed that if you ran the water for 10 mins and flushed the loo a few times it disappeared for a while, but was back first thing next morning. I found the area dirty with the usual time share touts bugging you. I found some fairly decent restaurants with polite waiters. Street sellers are allowed to meander through the restaurants trying to sell their wares which got on my nerves.
I would not go back unless I wanted full English breakfasts in British bars run by brits selling British beers. This is not the real Spain its kiss me quick Costa del Blackpool.
I did however have a wonderful neighbour in the next room to me. I’m no snob but I found the area a bit downmarket.
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Joanne Broomhall from Bilston, west midlands travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Direct holidays
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 4 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just got back from a week at the benalmadena palace hotel apartments and thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact, i would class it as the best holiday i have ever had. Staff are friendly and our kids were entertained for the entire holiday by susanna (who my 8 year old son has fallen in love with), and carol and jo (our airtours kids reps) and of course thanks to nacho too who kept my hubby entertained with archery, rifle shooting, water polo and other events.
There are activities all day to keep every one occupied and the apartments are second to none.
A great selection of food available in the restaurant and all in all, a top class holiday. I shall definitely be booking for next year.
Joanne broomhall
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Joanne from Birmingham travelled to Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel with
Panorama
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 09 2004 |
rated the Benalmadena Palace Aparthotel as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Upon arrival first impresions were that the room was small but clean and very well equipped.
Indoor swimming pool was a godsend, our 14 month old toddler found the outdoor pools too cold and the indoor pool was like stepping into a hot bath. We sunbathed outside the indoor pool on the terrace which was great because we could barrocade our toddler in with sunbeds in the shade with plenty of room still to run around (we were the only people on the terrace most days).
Only ate at the hotel once which I would say was below average, none of the meals on the buffet were named so it was pot luck with what you chose to eat. The food in the bar is only served until 4pm which was a pain because our toddler has tea around 5pm, so we had to cook his meals in our apartment every afternoon.
Maid came every other day although I telephoned to ask for our bins to be emptied and for clean towles and our request was honoured immediately.
We only stayed in the hotel one night and the entertainment was just okay, no atmosphere though as there was only half a dozen people there.
What was also impressive was that there were laundry facilities there, very useful if travelling with small children, if I had known this before we travelled I could of probably halfed what we had to take.
Went to Gibralter which was fantastic, fully recommend the rock bus tour, it costs 24 Euros per person and was a really good day, especially the monkeys who are adoreable and not at all scarey like people say, however rep did not warn us that we were only allowed 200 cigarettes duty free |
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